crystal Palace Forward Matheus Franca's disappointing spell in Brazil has taken another unexpected turn.
The 22-year-old was sent to Vasco da Gama last year at the request of Fernando Diniz. The move seemed like an ideal opportunity.
Diniz was a long-time admirer of the player and believed he could help revive a career that had stalled after injuries and limited opportunities in England. But it never worked out that way.
During Diniz's time at Vasco, França started only four matches. Despite being naturally an attacking player, he struggled for consistency, rarely looked comfortable and was also tested as a defensive midfielder at times.
As Vasco's results deteriorated, Diniz lost his job. França remained at the club but struggled for minutes and relevance. Renato Gaucho arrivedVasco improved, yet the Palace debtor remained marginalised.
Diniz, meanwhile, moved to Corinthians and has made an encouraging start there. Which makes the latest report from Brazil particularly interesting.
according to RTI gameDiniz has now asked Corinthians to explore a move for Matthias Franca.
In other words, the same manager who inspired Vasco to sign the Crystal Palace player – and then barely used him – now wants to bring him to his new club.
Diniz still believes?
The recommendation is notable because Diniz consistently defended France throughout his tenure.
Even when the midfielder was struggling badly, The coach publicly insisted that Vasco should not leave him. Diniz argued that França came after a long period without playing, had suffered significant injuries in England and "hadn't forgotten how to play football".
However, those comments never led to a regular place in the team. Français played 17 matches under Diniz but started only four. He too Used in unfamiliar situations As the coach finds solutions during difficult times for Vasco.
Despite this, RTI Esporte report that Diniz is confident that the player can regain his best form and sees him as a useful addition to Corinthians.
The palace is preparing for the next step
França's loan expires on June 30 and he is not expected to remain at Vasco.
Throughout his tenure in Rio de Janeiro, he played 27 matches and scored one goal. The move never provided the reset that Vasco or Crystal Palace had hoped for.
RTI Esporte said Palace do not currently have França in their plans for next season and hope to Look for another loan move. The player's representatives are said to view his continued stay in Brazilian football positively.
No talks are going on at this stage. Before making a significant move into the market, Corinthians are still dealing with financial issues, including delayed salary payments and outstanding transfer debts.
However, the story is already quite unusual for the Palace. After a loan spell that never really worked out under Fernando Diniz, the manager remains one of Franca's biggest believers and is now trying to give him another opportunity at a different club.
